Kolkata, Aug 11: Reinforcing its commitment to women’s empowerment and inclusive development, BBRL Foundation, the CSR arm of Budge Budge Refineries Ltd , the makers of Doctors’ Choice edible oils, has launched Doctors’ Choice Aparajita, a skill development initiative focused on culinary entrepreneurship. Ahead of the festive season, the Foundation aims to train 200 women, helping them convert their culinary skills into sustainable livelihood opportunities. On completion of the programme, the participants will receive an NSDC Certification, adding value to their employment and entrepreneurial prospects.
The first batch of 50 women has begun training at the Skill Centre of MNG Academy, an approved NSDC Skill Partner. The programme has drawn registrations from women belonging to diverse backgrounds, including home science colleges, NGOs, self-help groups, and our associated communities, women looking to begin or restart their careers, and those aspiring to set up home-based food businesses. Registrations are being conducted through an exhaustive vetting process conducted across these institutes to understand each participant’s dreams and aspirations.
The training module combines practical culinary training with essential business skills required to run a food enterprise. Participants will receive training in food safety and hygiene, FSSAI compliance, customer service, cloud kitchen operations, costing and pricing, digital marketing and onboarding food delivery platforms such as Swiggy and Zomato.
“Women-led entrepreneurship has the power to create lasting social and economic change. Through Doctors’ Choice Aparajita, we want to equip women with practical skills that can help them build independent and sustainable livelihoods. At BBRL Foundation, we believe that meaningful skill development creates opportunities, strengthens families, and contributes to the overall progress of communities”, said Mr Bijay Agarwal, Trustee, BBRL Foundation.
The initiative has received an encouraging response, with registrations still coming in for the remaining batches. By the time the programme concludes before Durga Puja, BBRL Foundation aims to equip 200 women with the skills and confidence to pursue opportunities such as home kitchens, catering services, cloud kitchens or careers in the hospitality and food service industry.
Through Doctors’ Choice Aparajita, BBRL Foundation continues to support initiatives that promote skill development, entrepreneurship and women’s economic participation. The programme reflects the Foundation’s commitment to creating opportunities that encourage self-reliance and contribute to long-term community development.